BY BRIAN RZEPPA
The beginning of last season for the Trenton High School Varsity Volleyball team was a whirlwind, to say the least. Beyond dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic, the team was left searching for a new coach at the outset of the season with then-coach Bob Heady stepping down due to concerns about COVID-19.
Gabrielle Maciag, a 2015 THS graduate, filled the void on an interim basis before the Athletic Department brought in Jill Romaine to lead the team. Despite the chaos, Romaine was able to lead the team to a strong season.
“Last season, while challenging at times, was successful. Our team hit the ground running and did not let up; going undefeated in and winning the league. We won Districts and fell to Ann Arbor Skyline in Regionals,” Romaine said. “We will miss our strong group of seniors this season, but we look forward to the young talent coming up.”
The loss of a strong senior core is a drawback, but this offseason and lead up to the season has been a major positive as opposed to last year. With Romaine in place and some of the restrictions from COVID removed, the team has had the chance to get into more of a groove as the season approaches.
“The offseason and some sense of ‘normalcy’ has been a plus for the team for sure,” she said. “Being able to attend team camps, open gyms, scrimmages, team dinners all will play a huge role in forming the bond the program wishes for the team.”
With the increased continuity from season-to-season and a handful of returning players that should be able to continue to develop, Romaine is optimistic about the team’s expectations for the coming year.
“My hopes for this season are that the girls pick up right where they left off. We have a strong group of six seniors that I believe will embrace and support the entire team’s success. Continuing to build on what we had will be huge.”
“I know the girls are hoping for those stands to be full and loud and all the things they are used to on game day. However, we are also grateful. Grateful to be playing, with or without masks, with or without fans. Overall, High school sports provide so many opportunities for student athletes. This season will be a success if the girls get a full ‘normal’ season and their chance.”
Looking throughout the roster, Romaine has tabbed a pair of her student-athletes as the most likely to lead the team, but is expecting that others will also step up and carry the load.
“Senior libero Ella Lucas and sophomore setter Molly Edmunds are two returning All-Region-selected players, so we’re hoping for big things out of them.”
Now one year into being a coach within Trenton, Romaine could not be more excited for this coming year and is grateful to be part of the community.
“The Trenton community has been great and I hope to give them the same. I truly care about my players on and off the court and I tell them that. The door is always open. Go Trojans!”